Freddie Phillips RIP

[James_Wright]

Penzance AFC is saddened to learn of the passing of former player and reserve team manager Freddie Phillips.
Originally signed from St Buryan, his home village, Freddie used to cycle to and from Penzance for football training and on match days. He was a regular first team centre-half in the late 50s and 60s. John Mead, who played a few games for the Reserves when Freddie was the manager, remembers: “He was excellent in the air, despite not having height advantage over many opponents - his bullet-like headers may well have been responsible for his health problems in recent years.”
Ron Vercesi adds: “I had just joined the Reserves as a young teenager back in 1967-68, or thereabouts. Freddie was highly-rated by his teammates - he helped me to settle into the side and was always willing to give me friendship and advice. In those days I was someone from ‘up country’ and classed as an outsider by some, so Freddie took me under his wing. I certainly looked to him for guidance and he gave it in abundance.”
Freddie was an ex-Fireman, so spent many years working from what is now the Jewson Bar at Penlee Park when it was the town’s Fire Station. He also lived just around the corner, in Mennaye Road. Joan, Freddie's wife, was also involved with the Magpies, taking on the role of Clubhouse Steward for a few years in the 90s.
Freddie was still turning out for the Combo side in the early 1970s, as player-manager. “I can remember him running off during the match to answer a "shout" around this time,” recalls
Penzance secretary Charlie Farley.
Like so many prolific headers of the ball, Freddie was struck down by Alzheimer’s diseasee. He passed away on Saturday at Menwinnion Care Home, Lamorna, where he had spent the last four years of his long and rewarding life.
“He was a really lovely person who always conducted himself in a calm, respectful manner, both on and off the field,” concludes John Mead. Penzance AFC passes its deepest condolences to Freddie’s family, and looks forward to giving Penlee Park the chances to pay its respects with a minute’s silence before this Saturday’s match.
        
    
    

[Tommy Matthews]

Sad to hear this news. Condolences to his family and friends. ❤️